Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2023 reveals our readers’ picks of the best hotels, pools, spas and even general managers in the Philippines. Dive into the more than 7,000 glorious islands waiting to be explored.
WITH ITS POWDERY WHITE SANDS, turquoise waters, palm lined shores, and big, warm smiles, it’s no wonder the Philippines has topped the World Tourism Awards for the Leading Beach Destination in Asia for the last six years. Sunseekers all over the world flock to this archipelago for its unparalleled marine pursuits. Whether that’s surfing Siargao and La Union’s famous breaks or exploring Tubbataha’s ocean depths, this archipelago has so much to offer – and with a side of friendly daytime karaoke, if that’s your jam.
The tourism industry is also moving beyond the tide, with great developments in wellness and eco-travel. Camping and mountaineering are trends that rose during the pandemic and are here to stay, along with immersive wellness retreats – think spiritual shamanic cacao ceremonies and reiki workshops. Watch out for motorcycle tourism as the Tourism Promotions Board is actively promoting zipping around cities or exploring stunning coastal roads on two wheels.
Not to be missed is the vibrant and cosmopolitan energy of Manila. Brimming with creative restaurateurs, sophisticated speakeasies, craft coffee shops, bespoke artisans, and bustling galleries, the capital city is no longer a stopover but a destination in its own right. The same goes for other big cities like design hub Cebu as well as Cagayan de Oro.
Aggressively pursuing its post-covid reopening, the country is hoping to become a “tourism powerhouse in Asia,” according to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Blazing the trail is Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco whose charm and unflappable energy has been making its mark around the world and more importantly, felt in the numbers. With more than 1.3 million foreign tourists in just the first quarter of 2023 alone, the Philippines stands to reach their 5 million target by the end of the year.
Completely on brand, Palawan remains one of the most desired beach getaways. Nabbing the top spot for Best Beach, Island or Upcountry Resort is Banwa Private Island. Located in the Sulu Sea, this ultra-exclusive 12-villa establishment boasts a thriving natural environment consisting of lush jungle and pristine coral reefs.
Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila takes No. 1 as the Best City Hotel in the Philippines. Seafront rooms are treated to expansive views of Manila Bay and guests love the combination of generous Filipino hospitality with that sophisticated French je ne sais quoi. Spirals remains one of the city’s most frequented buffet outlets thanks to their impressive selection of mouthwatering cheeses flown in from France. Trop bon!
Overlooking the sea, seemingly dipping straight into the ocean, the infinity pool at Shangri-la Boracay is the perfect spot for sundowner champers while admiring that famous Boracay sunset. The pool extends inland into a fun maze of fountains that’s great for kids. Bubbles for bubbas and bubbly for mama – sounds like the perfect vacation! We can see why it wins Best Hotel Pool in the Philippines.
True to form, with wellness at its core, the Farm at San Benito rightfully wins first place as the Best Hotel Spa. Nestled in a verdant valley just 90 minutes away from Manila, the Farm is a stunning green property with enchanted mango trees and hidden reflection ponds. The space alone is already a sanctuary perfect for quiet meditation. Coupled with years of expertise, they offer a 360 degree wellness program to suit every need. Leading the way in expanding their services and dining options is their general manager, Preet Singh, who also wins the top award for Hotel General Managers in the Philippines.
There is no doubt this gorgeous archipelago is the one to watch in Asia, with a rapidly developing industry that’s focusing on quality, immersive and sustainable tourism. Pro tip: Venture further than the usual circuit and explore some up and coming island destinations in the Visayas region like Siquijor, Dumaguete and Negros.
Best Beach, Island + Upcountry Hotels in the Philippines
2. Amanpulo
5. El Nido Resorts Lagen Island
6. El Nido Resorts Miniloc Island
Best City Hotels in the Philippines
1. Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila
2. Shangri-La The Fort, Manila
9. Okada Manila
10. Solaire
Best Hotel Pools in the Philippines
3. Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila
5. Plantation Bay Resort and Spa
7. Henann Regency Resort & Spa
Best Hotel Spas in the Philippines
3. Movenpick Resort & Spa Boracay
4. Amanpulo
Best Hotel General Managers in the Philippines
1. Preet Singh, The Farm at San Benito
2. Olivier Larcher, Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila
3. Elke De Sullan, Mandala Spa and Resort Villas
4. Fabio Berto, Conrad Manila
5. Ana Vergara , Sheraton Manila Hotel
Read on for the full lists of our readers’ picks of the Best Hotels, Spas and more in the Philippines for 2023. And for all of this year’s Luxury Awards Asia-Pacific winners, click here.
Lede image by Edwardo Alciso/Courtesy of Philippines Tourism.
